COVID-19 is getting around, causing sore throats, congestion and coughing.
The current dominant strain of COVID-19 is the Stratus variant also called XFG. It stems from the omicron strain of COVID-19, which was identified in 2021.
Symptoms of the newest COVID variant
The symptoms of the XFG COVID-19 strain are similar to previous strains. There’s no current evidence that the XFG variant leads to more severe disease or deaths than previous variants.
Typical COVID “Stratus” variant symptoms include:
- congestion
- cough
- fever
- headache
- sore throat
- muscle aches
How long does the new COVID variant last?
While this can vary among people, the average recovery time is five to 10 days.
Is the XFG variant of COVID more contagious than other variants?
There is evidence that the XFG variant is more transmissible than other COVID variants.
What should you do if you have COVID?
If you get COVID-19, take the same steps you would if you got influenza or another respiratory virus. You can return to school or work as long as it’s been at least 24 hours since your symptoms began improving, and if you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours without taking medication that reduces a fever.
You should still take certain precautions for the next five days, such as practicing good hand hygiene, physical distancing and wearing a mask when you’re in close contact with other people. Those steps will reduce the risk of passing along the virus to others. Even though you may be feeling better, it may be possible to transmit the virus to others during this time.
When should you be concerned if you have COVID?
You should seek medical attention if you have any of these symptoms:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- inability to eat or drink
If you’re getting worse and not better over time, that would also be a reason to seek out your health care provider.
COVID-19 testing
Testing for COVID-19 can be beneficial for those who may benefit from receiving antiviral treatment such as adults over 65 and people who are immunocompromised or have other chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease.
Treatments for COVID-19 should be started within five days of symptom beginning, though earlier is better.
Are COVID-19 vaccines available in Ohio?
The 2025-2026 COVID vaccines are available in Ohio. But you will need to fill out a consent form where you attest that you’re eligible for the vaccine because you:
- are 65 or older
- have a high-risk medical condition
- have a compromised immune system
In other cases, if your doctor feels that you should get the COVID vaccine, a prescription can be sent into the pharmacy.
Why get a COVID-19 vaccine?
There are benefits for everyone to receive the COVID vaccine regardless of age/health status.
Vaccination againt COVID-19 helps:
- protect against severe illness
- prevent hospitalization and death due to COVID-19
- reduce the risk for long COVID.
COVID vaccination is especially important in anyone over 65, pregnant or immunocompromised as these groups are at highest risk for severe disease, complications and death.
Are there long-term side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?
COVID vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective. Millions of people have received the vaccine. Having side effects that don’t go away after a few days are very rare.
How long does the COVID-19 vaccine last in your body?
Studies show that COVID vaccines are most effective during the first three months after the dose, and protection decreases beyond that point.
Will COVID-19 ever go away?
Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that COVID will ever completely go away. The virus will likely continue to cause seasonal illnesses each year.
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